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A Philadelphia Problem Solver Carves Out Spaces to Light
Technology Category
- Application Infrastructure & Middleware - Data Exchange & Integration
- Application Infrastructure & Middleware - Data Visualization
- Functional Applications - Remote Monitoring & Control Systems
Applicable Functions
- Business Operation
- Facility Management
Use Cases
- Building Automation & Control
- Indoor Positioning Systems
- Visual Quality Detection
Services
- Software Design & Engineering Services
- System Integration
The Challenge
The Philadelphia International Festival of the Arts (PIFA) 2013 presented a unique challenge for lighting designer Joshua L. Schulman and his team. They were tasked with creating an interactive time machine exhibit that would serve as the festival's hub. The concept, conceived by the Kimmel Center's artistic director Jay Wahl, was nebulous and required extensive brainstorming to define the user experience. The design team explored various ideas, from H.G. Wells' science fiction to the time-traveling DeLorean from 'Back to the Future,' before settling on a spiraling exhibit inspired by a double helix of DNA. The challenge was to make the exhibit interactive and engaging for the estimated 100,000 visitors. Additionally, the Kimmel Center's architecture, with its glass roof and varying sunlight conditions, posed significant challenges for lighting and video projection.
About The Customer
Joshua L. Schulman is a lighting designer who played a crucial role in the Philadelphia International Festival of the Arts (PIFA) 2013. The festival, held at the Kimmel Center for the Performing Arts, featured a variety of live performances, educational programs, and a 100-foot-long time machine experience. Schulman was part of a team that created this interactive exhibit, which served as the festival's hub and attracted an estimated 100,000 visitors. Schulman has a history of collaborating with the Kimmel Center's artistic director, Jay Wahl, and has previously worked on the Hidden City Philadelphia Festival in 2009. His expertise in lighting design and problem-solving capabilities have earned him several awards and recognition in the field.
The Solution
To address the challenges, Schulman and his team used Vectorworks Spotlight with Renderworks software to model and render the exhibit plan. The software helped them solve issues like preventing light from passing through the structure's gaps and positioning a giant structure of 600 crystals. The crystals were suspended in a cluster and interacted with visitors' heartbeats to create a mesmerizing light and color show. Motion-sensing technology was also integrated to modulate the pulse of sound and light based on visitors' movements. Schulman used the software to experiment with different lighting setups, especially to counteract the varying sunlight conditions inside the Kimmel Center. By modeling the Kimmel Center and using basic photometrics, Schulman figured out how to light the tube's interior interactively. The software allowed for real-time testing and adjustments, enabling the team to make accurate design decisions quickly. This iterative process saved time and money, ensuring the success of the interactive exhibit.
Operational Impact
Quantitative Benefit
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